Chemistry Advanced Placement Policy

Four credit hours for CHM 030 are granted to students who earn a grade of 5 on the Advanced Chemistry Placement test.

CHM 030/031 vs CHM 040/041

Given their similarities, a student may not receive credit for both CHM 030 and CHM 040. The CHM 040/041 sequence is intended for students considering a major in chemistry or biochemistry, or in one of the related science or engineering fields that require a strong background in chemistry. Nevertheless, either sequence may be used for any degree program that requires general chemistry. 

Pros of taking CHM 040 instead of CHM 030:

  • Limited seating in CHM 040 creates more access to the professor and available office hours
  • A smaller, more customized experience is also possible in CHM 040
  • Looks good on application for post-graduate or medical school 
  • Grading and grade distribution is the same as in CHM 030, meaning there is no risk and only gain from this course experience

CHM 030 or 040 is required for first-semester students who wish to pursue any degree program offered by Chemistry or Biological Sciences, as well as anyone considering the pre-health programs. CHM 030 or 040 is a prerequisite for the introductory Biological Sciences core courses, BIOS 041: Biology Core I: Cellular & Molecular, and its accompanying lab, BIOS 042.